The Following: Artificial Color

Artificial colors are substances added to food to give it a specific color or to enhance its natural color. Most commonly, these are synthetic dyes created from petroleum. They are not naturally found in the foods they color.

Manufacturers use artificial colors to make foods more appealing, to identify flavors, or to replace color lost during processing and storage. They are frequently found in candies, baked goods, beverages, snacks, and powdered drink mixes.

In the United States, artificial colors are approved by the FDA as food additives. In April 2025, the FDA announced a plan to phase out petroleum-based synthetic dyes, including Red 40, Yellow 5, Yellow 6, Blue 1, Blue 2, Green 3, Citrus Red 2, and Orange B. Some studies have suggested a link between consumption of artificial colors and hyperactivity in some children, though the evidence is mixed and more research is ongoing. International bodies like JECFA and EFSA have evaluated individual artificial colors and set acceptable daily intakes for them.